The Real Alcázar is Seville’s royal palace – and still a royal residence today. Its upper floors are used by the Spanish royal family when they visit the city, which makes it one of the oldest royal palaces in Europe still in use. Behind its walls, Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance architecture blend in a maze of courtyards, halls and gardens. Together with the Cathedral and the Archivo de Indias, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to see at the Real Alcázar
The Palace of King Pedro
Built in the 14th century for Pedro I of Castile by craftsmen from Granada, Toledo and Seville, the Palacio del Rey Don Pedro is a masterpiece of Mudéjar art: carved stucco, tiles and wooden ceilings.
The Patio de las Doncellas
The Courtyard of the Maidens, with its long reflecting pool and sunken gardens, is the heart of the palace.
The Hall of Ambassadors
The Salón de Embajadores is crowned by a dazzling golden dome – the most spectacular room in the Alcázar.
The Baths of Doña María de Padilla
Beneath the palace, these vaulted rainwater cisterns glow in the half-light and mirror their arches in the water.
The gardens
Allow time for the gardens: orange trees, fountains, pavilions and the Galería del Grutesco, a raised walkway with views over the whole estate. Fans may recognise them as the Water Gardens of Dorne from *Game of Thrones*.
Tips for your visit
- Book a timed ticket online – queues at the gate can be long.
- Go first thing in the morning to enjoy the courtyards before the crowds.
- Combine with the Cathedral and a walk through the Santa Cruz quarter next door.
Real Alcázar FAQ
How long does a visit take?
Allow 2 to 3 hours, including the gardens.
Can you visit the royal apartments?
The upper royal apartments are visited separately on guided tours with their own ticket.
